Analisis Makroskopik, Mikroskopik dan Dokumentasi Pengetahuan Lokal Tumbuhan Liar Sijukkot (Lactuca indica L.) sebagai Obat Tradisional di Kabupaten Humbang Hasundutan

Abstract

Background: Sijukkot is a wild plant traditionally used as medicine in Humbang Hasundutan Regency. The use of this plant has been passed down through generations but remains relatively unknown outside the region. Objective: This study aims to introduce sijukkot as a medicinal plant through scientific exploration and identification. Methods: The methods used in this study include macroscopic and microscopic analysis of the plant simplicia, as well as semi-structured interviews with Batak informants who possess traditional knowledge. Sample collection was conducted using a purposive sampling method. Results: The results showed that microscopic analysis of the leaves identified five diagnostic fragments: vascular bundles, trichomes, stomata, lower epidermis, and palisade parenchyma. In the roots, five fragments were found, including ladder type vascular tissue and sclerenchyma fibers, while the stem contained six fragments, such as epidermis and xylem vessels. Interview results revealed that sijukkot is commonly used to treat coughs (22%), flu (22%), stomach pain (16%), gastric problems (19%), diabetes (12%), and hypertension (9%). The community generally consumes sijukkot leaves raw as a vegetable salad or boils them with palm sugar before drinking the infused water. Conclusion: This study concludes that sijukkot has distinct macroscopic characteristics, with 16 specific shapes in the leaves, 6 in the stems, and 4 in the roots. Microscopic analysis identified 5 diagnostic fragments in the leaves, 6 in the stems, and 5 in the roots. The findings confirm that sijukkot has long been trusted by the local community for its traditional medicinal benefits. Keywords: Sijukkot, Lactuca indica, Traditional Medicine, Macroscopic, Microscopic